On a scorching hot day between two Mediterranean tourist resorts, Froome was on blistering form in the time trial. He blasted the opposition out the way with a near perfect ride, beating the entire field. Only one rider, Castroviejo, came within a minute of his time. More significantly he took a whopping 2 minutes, 16 seconds out of Nairo Quintana's lead.
The Colombian was absolutely right when he said last week that he needed a platform of at least 3 minutes to ensure victory over Froome. He still has a 1 min 21 advantage...
Read MoreThis year's Vuelta continues to entertain, surprise and wow spectators and audiences. The peloton rolled through more spectacular Spanish countryside in the verdant north. Congratulations to Lilian Calmejane for pulling off his first stage win in a Grand Tour. He rode with great strength as well tactical nous, again highlighting the strength and depth of young talent emerging from France.
Movistar played a cool game today. Although they lost the red jersey, they seemed content to play it out for the long game. They're looking to take the red to Madrid rather than hustle over it in these early stages. Darwin Atapuma takes the honour of being race leader over Valverde by 29 seconds. He's one of three Colombians in the top five, along with Esteban Chaves and Nairo Quintana - surely one of the top nations in road cycling at the moment.
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